Frequently Asked Questions

What is a life coach?

A Lifestyle Coach is someone who supports their client’s objective by providing assistance through motivating self actualization, creating action plans, and providing tools to make goals more tangible. A coach is an active participant in the client’s transformation and motivates the client’s ability to identify goals that are ready for execution.

How does life coaching work?

Partnering with the client, a coach does not define or control the outcomes of the identified goal. Recognizing that there are different approaches and perspectives to executing a goal, the coach does not defines the “right” way of execution. Instead, the coach supports the client’s efforts by creating depth and expansion within the amount of time provided to complete the goal.

How is life coaching different from counseling?

One difference between counselling and life coaching is that a counselor can investigate the underlying causes of emotional and psychological trauma. A life coach focuses on future results and encourages personal-development and self-improvement. Life coaches are not qualified to diagnose or treat any health-related problems, although if the situation arises they may suggest you see your general practitioner.

What sorts of people have a Life Coach?

People from all walks of life can participate in a coaching relationship for any form of advancement. A commonality amongst clients who decide to acquire a life coach is the desire to create change and the willingness to partner with someone who is trained to assist.

What happens during a coaching session?

During each session the client will clearly define an objective which will establish a focal point during the meeting time. Together, we begin to explore the conversation and the intended goal for cues that stimulates the desired outcome. If an action plan is provided, we will discuss the steps that were executed and their relationship to the goal. Several interactive exercises and techniques are coupled throughout our time together. The end goal is to assist the client in their efforts to obtain the desired goal with the support of the coach.

How long are the coaching sessions?

My coaching sessions are in 60 minute increments. The frequency of these sessions are determined during our consultation. My services are designed to support your lifestyle which enables us to work at the speed at which you can take actions and achieve your goals. Video conferencing and other streams of telecommunication are welcomed.

How many coaching sessions will I need?

This depends on what you want to achieve with your coach. Having a goal in mind provides a starting point for each session. In order to achieve this goal, a formal strategy plan is then created and includes a target timeline for results. The amount of time allocated varies per client. Deciding the amount of time needed to complete a goal is a very personal decision based on your individual needs.

Where does the coaching take place?

Majority of my sessions are completed through telecommunication to accommodate my clients’ schedules. For clients who are within the state of Illinois, I often require that we complete in-person for the first session to develop a heightened level of trust. Telecommunication has proven to be the most convenient way for individuals to fit coaching into their schedule.

How much does it cost?

Pricing is developed during our first consultation.

What will I have to do?

Decide that you are going to convert your dreams into goals through taking action. Once this decision has been made, be prepared to show up as your authentic self and partner with me as I provide empathy, compassion, and consistency throughout your process. Submit a request for a consultation to begin your journey.

What are the benefits of having a Life Coach?

The benefits of having a Life Coach are endless. Partnering with a coach who is solely dedicated to you and the achievement of your goals can be a transformative experience. Providing a confidential, non-judgemental, supportive, and motivating environment, you will be supported in your efforts of becoming a better you.

About Dorothy Payne-Polk

A lover of all things feminine, Dorothy Payne-Polk is a woman determined to create divergence where barriers have been developed in the minds, hearts, and souls of women across the world.